Photo: Antony Blinken< /p>
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken strongly condemned the practice of torture and called on all governments to take action to prevent torture, hold those responsible for its use accountable, and support its victims.
On the International Day of Support for Victims of Torture, the United States noted that despite the absolute prohibition of torture under international law, “governments continue to use torture and other inhumane treatment as a tool of repression against prisoners, human rights defenders, representatives of marginalized groups and those who expresses an opinion with which these governments do not agree,” reports “Voice of America.”
“The United States condemns torture – wherever and whenever they take place– Blinken emphasized in a statement released by the State Department. – We call on all governments to take action to prevent torture, bring perpetrators to justice and provide support to (their) victims.”
The Secretary of State emphasized that, through the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, the United States is continue to support programs to rehabilitate victims and ensure justice. In addition, the United States is committed to preventing torture by providing security personnel with human rights training and improving mechanisms to ensure rigorous accountability.
Prepared by: Sergei Daga